A pastor from Legacy Faith Church in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, faces backlash after using an assault-style rifle as a sermon prop while addressing his congregation. Pastor Phillip Thornton wielded the unloaded weapon during a sermon on September 28, asserting it was a visual aid to illustrate the idea of “clearing the room” of unbelief—an action he connected to biblical teachings. Despite safety measures taken to confirm the gun was ammunition-free, the incident has ignited discussions about the appropriateness of such demonstrations in religious settings.
Throughout his sermon, Thornton engaged the congregation by referencing military concepts and even pointed the weapon at attendees, using a laser sight to enhance his message. He emphasized the need for “spiritual violence” against doubt, linking his teachings to broader themes of faith and societal issues surrounding gun rights. The church has responded to the ensuing controversy with a statement, expressing gratitude for the attention his message has received and hoping that viewers will consider the sermon within its full context.
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